Cr guilty of failing to disclose conflict of interest

A central Victorian councillor has been found guilty of failing to disclose a conflict of interest.

The Local Government Inspectorate brought the prosecution against Central Goldfields Shire councillor Ian Robertson after he failed to disclose a conflict of interest before voting on a road upgrade outside his property.

Earlier, the shire's former mayor, Chris Meddows-Taylor, told the court Cr Robertson moved and enthusiastically endorsed a motion to redevelop the road.

He said Cr Robertson did not declare the road passed by his property or excuse himself from the council chamber because of a conflict.

In sentencing, magistrate David Cotrell said he accepted Cr Robertson had backed the project because he believed it was in the best interest of the community and not for personal gain.

However, the magistrate also noted conflict of interest provisions are critical to councils and that he must find him guilty.

Cr Robertson was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond but no conviction was recorded.

He will be required to make a $4,000 donation to the Maryborough hospital.

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